CLUTCH MATERIALS EXPLAINED IN NEW INFOGRAPHIC

A new infographic from clutch manufacturer Phoenix Friction explains the pros and cons of the five common clutch friction materials: organic, ceramic, kevlar, feramic, and a new friction material known as feramalloy. The graphic highlights the key differences between each material, making it easy for clutch owners and enthusiasts to select the right material.

"Clutch friction materials can be confusing, and clutch manufacturers are largely to blame for this confusion," says Lou Rivieccio, President of Phoenix Friction Products. "Clutch manufacturers have been using confusing and incorrect terminology for decades, and consumers have suffered as a result. The good news is that the differences between materials are easy to understand," says Rivieccio.

The graphic explains that:

Organic material is a good all-around choice, with heavy-duty organic clutch material fully capable when used on trucks, street performance vehicles, and even commercial vehicle

Ceramic clutch material offers an incredible amount of toughness, but this toughness comes with some drivability issues and when driven incorrectly, can cause accelerated wear to the mating surfaces.

Kevlar is a longer lasting alternative to organic clutch material, making it a great choice for most OEM replacements, as well as for use off-road

Feramic clutch material is really best used in racing situations, as the material grabs much too fast to be driveable off the track

A new FeramAlloy clutch material offers the performance and strength of ceramics, but it's much more driveable due to smoother engagement characteristics.

"One of the biggest mistakes replacement clutch buyers make is to overlook Kevlar," explains Rivieccio. "Kevlar sounds like it's an exotic material, but it’s really just a longer lasting version of an organic clutch disc. It's just as drivable as an organic clutch, but lasts two to three times longer. Kevlar clutch discs can last hundreds of thousands of miles - it really is a great value," says Rivieccio.

To learn more about clutch disc friction materials, see http://www.phoenixfriction.com/t-picking-a-clutch-cheat-sheet.aspx

About Phoenix Friction

Phoenix Friction has been in making clutches for over three decades. They offer a range of clutch kits and parts for personal vehicles, performance vehicles, and commercial/fleet vehicles. Phoenix Friction entered the industry as problem solvers, and continue to develop clutch and brake solutions. Their expertise has made them an authority on all things clutches, including clutch materials.